Wire EDM depends on more than machine settings alone. This guide reviews the setup, maintenance, and process controls that most affect wire-EDM performance.
Nickel-base alloys reward a slow, stable reaming process with close control of stock allowance, speed, feed, and coolant. This guide covers the main setup priorities.
END USER: 80/20 Inc., (260) 248-8030, www.8020.net. CHALLENGE: Overcoming limitations of older machine tools that could each only perform one step when making a part. SOLUTION: New CNC machine tools with more capabilities and flexibility.
END USER: PDQ Corp., (860) 529-9051, www.pdqcorp.com. CHALLENGE: Find a more efficient method for machining complex, tight-tolerance parts primarily for the aerospace industry. SOLUTION: Two 6-axis mill/turn machine tools.
END USER: Evolution Gun Works Inc., (215) 538-1012, www.egwguns.com. CHALLENGE: Boost productivity when machining gun parts. SOLUTION: A high-performance endmill.
The second Look Ahead item in the September issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine covers bandsaw technology that automatically adjusts feed rate as the density of a structural workpiece changes.